My 12 year old boy has hit puberty big time in the last year. He is a ski racer and this year during his dry land training they are introducing weight training. He has stretched out and appears leaner than he was a year ago but he is a bit chubby, not much but a bit. His stats would be
aprox 5’6
150lbs
13 on Oct 2/03
A couple of questions:
Should I be concerned with the weight training at this age?
What should I ask his coaches to determine all is ok with the intensity levels to prevent injury or to not affect his development?
What measuring factors could I use to determine if his weight and fat % are ok for a 13 year old boy of his weight and height.
( I am aware of the possible psychological affects and the problem with eating disorders especially at puberty and will be very cautious, but after all I do determine what he eats)
Avoid those two, particularly in concert, and he’ll do fine. Coaches are generally quite good about the former; knowledgeable ones, the latter as well.
His weight’s on the high side of normal for his height. Don’t badger him about it. Do attempt to provide him with healthy and protein-rich foods.
How about supplements?
Vitamins?
Should I make him the odd protein Shake?
Should I get him to put butter or Canola oil on toast? (sorry… couldn’t resist…ha)
I also agree with KnightRT, keep an eye on the amount of weight and form. I would stress form more than anything, with the proper form will enhance the potential for greater gains.
One more thought, research has shown that providing a variety of movements through all planes of motion(forward, side, and turning) and a focus on flexibility, balance and strength of the core will be simultaneously improve athletic performance, reduce injuries, and provide the children with a positive association with exercise and fitness.
Right now just have him lift mostly to learn good form. Don’t worry about heavy weights just yet. An increase in activity, and a healthy diet is all that is needed right now. Combine this with puberty (increasing T and growth) and he should naturally become lean.
Be careful about becoming too strict about this with him on these issues. Kids at this age have enough to deal with, so try to introduce things slowly, and focus on creating good habits more then immediate results.
Thanks guys… some really information there. Another quick question.
My 9 year old boy is small for his age, next to zero body fat. At what point should I be concerned about his growth. Should I be looking into any growth medications for him. I think he is more worried than me however.
I think you are too worried. 9 is a little too young to get medication for growth, and I am pretty sure a reputable doctor won’t prescribe anything for you. Once he hits puberty he could become the tallest in his class